The state Legislature approved $7.1 million to implement a hepatitis A vaccination program to combat the outbreak in southeast Michigan. Both the House Appropriations Committee and the Senate Appropriations Committee unanimously voted Nov. 8 to transfer the funds from other, unexpended funds in the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services budget. The allocation will provide $3.9 million to purchase more than 150,000 doses of vaccine. The remaining funds are targeted to hire additional staff in health departments in Detroit and 11 surrounding counties to give vaccinations, conduct outreach and hold clinics. Healthcare workers are among those considered to be at risk for the disease. For more information, contact Ruthanne Sudderth at the MHA.

The application period for loan repayment agreements through the Michigan State Loan Repayment Program (MSLRP) has been shortened for 2018.The state will accept only complete applications that are postmarked from Feb. 5 through 9. The MSLRP assists employers in the recruitment and retention of primary care providers who continue their commitment to underserved communities designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas. Selected applicants will receive up to $200,000 in tax-free funds to repay educational debt over a period of up to eight years. Top priority is being given to certain provider types in specific locations. The MSLRP webpage has been updated for the current application period, and those who wish to compete for a loan repayment agreement should review it carefully. For more information, contact Ken Miller at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at (517) 241-9946.